abuzz

Definition

Characterized by a high level of activity or gossip; in a buzz (“feeling or rush of energy or excitement”), buzzing.

Etymology

From a- (prefix indicating a condition or manner) + buzz (“feeling or rush of energy or excitement; major topic of conversation; widespread rumor; information spread behind the scenes”) or buzz (“to show a high level of activity and haste; to communicate in an undertone; to spread, as a report, by whispers or secretly; to talk to incessantly or confidentially in a low humming voice”).

Example Sentences

• "The court was all astir and a-buzz, when the black sheep—whom many fell away from in dread—pressed him into an obscure corner among the crowd."
• "There's too many women in the house for me: I hate the sound of women's voices; they're always either a-buzz or a-squeak, always either a-buzz or a-squeak."
• "The long silent halls of sumptuous hotels are all abuzz with excited arrivals."